Emma Barton says it brings a "lump to her throat" to think about Dame Barbara Windsor watching her run the London Marathon.
The ‘EastEnders’ actress – who plays Honey Mitchell on the BBC One soap – is one of several Walford residents who have formed a running team, Barbara’s Revolutionaries, who are aiming to raise £100,000 by taking on the 26.2-mile race in support of the former ‘Enders’ actress, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2014.
The soap star admitted it would be "the most emotional way to end the day" if the 81-year-old star is able to attend the event and see her fellow cast members supporting her.
In an interview with OK! magazine, she said: "It’ll be the most emotional way to end the day. Even talking about it brings a lump to my throat. "
Emma hailed Barbara – who played Queen Vic landlady Peggy Mitchell – as a "great influence" on the younger cast members of the show and insisted she’s a "strong woman".
She said: "She’s such a good role model and a great influence on young people on the show. She’s done it all and she’s well respected.
"That’s a strong woman someone who knows the business and is disciplined."
Emma recalled the last time she saw Barbara, admitting she "looked fantastic", and during the chat they reminisced on the ‘EastEnders’ legend’s days starring in the ‘Carry On’ film franchise.
When asked when she last saw Barbara, Emma said: "Just before Christmas for a cup of tea. We had a laugh and she was telling us old stories about her ‘Carry On’ days.
"She looked fantastic. Of course you can have good and bad days."
Emma Barton prepares for ’emotional’ day at London Marathon
